I am pleased to transmit legislation and supporting documents
prepared by my Administration to implement the United States-Australia
Free Trade Agreement (FTA). This Agreement adds an important dimension
to our bilateral relationship with a steadfast ally in the global
economic and strategic arena. This FTA will enhance the prosperity of
the people of the United States and Australia, serve the interest of
expanding U.S. commerce, and advance our overall national interest.

My Administration is committed to securing a level playing field
and creating opportunities for America's workers, farmers, and
businesses. The United States and Australia already enjoy a strong
trade relationship. The U.S.-Australia FTA will further open
Australia's market for U.S. manufactured goods, agricultural products,
and services, and will promote new growth in our bilateral trade. As
soon as this FTA enters into force, tariffs will be eliminated on
almost all manufactured goods traded between our countries, providing
significant export opportunities for American manufacturers. American
farmers will also benefit due to the elimination of tariffs on all
exports of U.S. agricultural products.

The U.S.-Australia FTA will also benefit small- and medium-sized
businesses and their employees. Such firms already account for a
significant amount of bilateral trade. The market opening resulting
from this Agreement presents opportunities for those firms looking to
start or enhance participation in global trade.

In negotiating this FTA, my Administration was guided by the
negotiating objectives set out in the Trade Act of 2002. The
Agreement's provisions on agriculture represent a balanced response to
those seeking improved access to Australia's markets, through immediate
elimination of tariffs on U.S. exports and mechanisms to resolve
sanitary and phytosanitary issues and facilitate trade between our
countries, while recognizing the sensitive nature of some U.S.
agricultural sectors and their possible vulnerability to increased
imports.

The U.S.-Australia FTA also reinforces the importance of creativity
and technology to both of our economies. The Agreement includes rules
providing for strong protection and enforcement of intellectual
property rights, promotes the use of electronic commerce, and provides
for increased cooperation between our agencies on addressing
anticompetitive practices, financial services, telecommunications, and
other matters.

The Agreement memorializes our shared commitment to labor and
environmental issues. The United States and Australia have worked in
close cooperation on these issues in the past and will pursue this
strategy and commitment to cooperation in bilateral and global fora in
the future.

With the approval of this Agreement and passage of the implementing
legislation by the Congress, we will advance U.S. economic, security,
and political interests, and set an example of the benefits of free
trade and democracy for the world.